Kings Cross

Gasholder No. 8 is a focal point of the regeneration scheme taking place in Kings Cross, London. In response to a RIBA competition brief, we headed up a multi-disciplinary design team with Buro Happold, Landscape Architects Studio Engleback, design storyteller Leonora Oppenheim, & illustrator Chris Haughton.

The brief called for a multi-use space built within the Grade 2 Listed frame of a Victorian gasholder. Our proposal creates a sheltered, flexible public space and amphitheatre, with a movable canopy made of biomimetic, kinetic fronds. These harness solar power to open and close depending on the demands of the weather or events; they also collect water for the landscaping.

The site features a ramped section that houses a cafe and site facilities, and which can be used as an observation deck for taking in views over the adjacent canal and wildlife sanctuary; it also provides seating for watching public events. The space within the gasholder features movable landscape that can be set up for outdoor cinemas and events such as London Fashion Week, and on an everyday level as a public piazza.